Can sinusitis cause headaches?
Dec 29, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Sinusitis may cause headaches. Headache locations vary depending on the affected sinus: maxillary and frontal sinus headaches are generally located around the eyes, ethmoid sinus headaches usually occur in the bilateral temporal regions, while sphenoid sinus headaches are typically felt at the occiput or vertex. Additionally, headache patterns may differ according to the location. For example, frontal sinusitis tends to cause the most severe pain in the morning and the least in the afternoon, whereas maxillary sinusitis causes milder symptoms in the morning and worsens in the afternoon.
Many people in daily life suffer from rhinitis or sinusitis, a type of rhinitis that presents various symptoms. Sometimes individuals may experience headaches. Can sinusitis cause headaches?
Can Sinusitis Cause Headaches?
Yes, sinusitis can cause headaches. The location of the headache varies depending on which sinuses are affected. Maxillary and frontal sinus headaches usually occur around the cheeks and forehead, ethmoid sinus headaches typically affect both temples, while sphenoid sinus headaches generally occur at the back of the head or the top of the skull. Additionally, headache patterns may vary based on the affected sinus. For example, frontal sinusitis tends to cause the most severe pain in the morning, easing by afternoon, whereas maxillary sinusitis often causes milder symptoms in the morning but worsens during the afternoon.
The best treatment for sinusitis depends on the type of sinusitis. Clinically, acute sinusitis is primarily treated with adequate use of antibiotics to control infection within the sinus cavities. Acute sinusitis is mainly caused by bacterial infections, so patients should follow medical advice and fully complete prescribed anti-inflammatory medication courses. For chronic sinusitis, the optimal approach involves controlling nasal mucosal edema. This is commonly managed clinically using nasal decongestants administered locally, or by rinsing the nasal cavity with normal saline or hypertonic saline.
If you suspect you have rhinitis or sinusitis, please seek timely medical care at an appropriate clinic or hospital to avoid negative impacts on your daily life and overall health. We hope this information has been helpful. Wishing you good health and happiness!
